In a book that dares to challenge the theory of natural selection as an explanation for how evolution works, Jerry Fodor and Massimo Piattelli-Palmarini offer a critique of Darwin not in the name of religion but in the name of thorough science. The logic underlying natural selection is the survival of the fittest under changing environmental pressure; this logic, they argue, is mistaken, and they back up the claim with surprising evidence of what actually happens in nature.

"Remaining staunchly atheist all the while, philosopher Fodor and cognitive scientist Piattelli-Palmarini challenge Darwinism more effectively than the entire creationist/intelligent-design movement has. Their short, deliberate ... tract lays out biological and conceptual arguments against natural selection. Natural selection as the driver of speciation has become decreasingly explanatory as research continues to appreciate the complexity of internal and external processes impinging on development. For one thing, inherent physical limitations of developing organisms nullify blind selection; adapt as they may, pigs will never grow wings. Conceptually, natural selection is faulty because it necessarily implies intentionality (selection is made by something), never mind that how something with adaptive effect is chosen is utterly elusive logically. There is a great deal more to Fodor and Piattelli-Palmarini's arguments, which ordinary general readers won't be able to articulate afterward but will gratefully refer others—and themselves—to again and again. Many may find this the hardest, absolutely essential reading they've ever done."—Booklist